WordCamp Miami 2016 Tech Gear Packing List

WordCamp Miami 2016 Tech Gear Packing List

WordCamp Miami is just a few days away and we’re really excited here at Design Theory. I’m taking the whole family down, which includes my kids so that they can experience their first conference and kick start their own web and internet journey of creativity and creation.

Below is a list of tech things we’re packing to make the trip and stay as productive and comfortable as possible:

  • Macbook chargers and extension cables. Power is always a big thing at conferences. It’s just as important as having a reliable wifi signal.
  • Smart phone and tablet chargers and portable chargers. This little $10 and $20 portable chargers can usually recharge your device 2 or more times from a dead charge.
  • Macbook Pro laptop. Because I’m going to get ideas on things I’m going to want to implement right when I hear it. So having my laptop will be essential.
  • Tablet/iPad. Having this as a second input device is rather helpful and lightweight. Easy to carry around and setup on a small desk surface.
  • A comfortable backpack, rolling case, or messenger bag. Carrying all of your gadgets and hardware can get heavy or cumbersome.
  • Business cards. This should go without saying, but it’s a good way to quickly give out your contact information while in passing or like a secret note in class during sessions.
  • GoPro. This is a really small and easy to use video camera that I can also take stills on. On one charge it can last me up to 3+ hours and I can control it from my phone.
  • Nikon DSLR. This one is a bit heavier because I have a few lenses that I like to use for various situations. But capturing some great speaker profile pictures, or scenes of packed out rooms where lighting is really low, my Nikon comes in really handy.
  • Extension cord and/or power strip. If you’re going to be staying in a certain track for a few sessions in a row, it helps to secure a seat where you can plug in your power strip and multiple devices to charge all at once.
  • A notebook and pencils. In case you run out of charge on all of your devices, having a good old pencil and paper for note writing is really handy.

So those are the things I’m bring with me. What are some things you plan to pack with you? Add to the conversation below or on Twitter with me and the hashtag #WCMIA

Blab Replays: Work, Life, Health, & Social Media Balance

Blab Replays: Work, Life, Health, & Social Media Balance

This week’s topic was on the honest and transparent side for us I would say. Typically how we manage our lives can be seen through curated material in our social media channels and streams. But how we’re juggling all of that is more of a mystery than glitz, ease, and glamour.

In this replay we talk about how we manage our days, apps that we use, best practices, and also provide some health tips. Be sure to add your comments below if you’d like to add to the conversation.

Blab Replays: Time Saving Apps for Blogging and Social Media

Blab Replays: Time Saving Apps for Blogging and Social Media

Hey everyone! Back with another replay. This time Bess and I were talking about some time-saving apps that we use everyday. We also had some guests jump on and discuss some apps that they use also. On top of all that, there were a bunch of app suggestions by viewers in the chat room as well.

While the show was fantastic and full in great tips, there’s too much to type. So I highly suggest you watch the replay and have a pen and paper ready to write down the app suggestions. A lot of the suggestions were for free apps, and some freemium (meaning free options, then a paid model for more features). Check it out and let me know what you think!

Photo Friday: Grey and Beautiful

Photo Friday: Grey and Beautiful

I recently did a shoot at the Edgewater Hotel in Winter Garden and one of my favorite photos was from the mother of a young actor/model. Reason why is because she was only there for her son and didn’t think she’d be a good model to shoot. What stood out for me was her hair and her eyes. You’ll see in the photo why. I’m glad she wasn’t too reluctant and allowed me to shoot her, and here it is.